As the Jewish High Holidays approach, it’s a good time to reflect on the significant decisions made by Jewish athletes in their careers. One notable example is Hank Greenberg, a Hall of Famer who chose to sit out a game for his Detroit Tigers on Yom Kippur in 1933. This decision, made when Greenberg was just 25 years old, raised questions about the importance of playing on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar.
Greenberg had previously chosen to play on Rosh Hashanah, just nine days earlier, and hit two home runs as the Tigers won 2-1. The team was on the verge of winning the pennant, but had not yet clinched it. Greenberg’s decision to sit out Yom Kippk was seen as a selfless act, one that demonstrated his commitment to his faith.
Fast forward to 1965, when Sandy Koufax, another Jewish baseball star, chose to sit out Game 5 of the World Series on Yom Kippk, forgoing a chance to pitch in the decisive game of the series. Koufax’s decision received widespread attention, and is often cited as an example of the high values that Jewish athletes are willing to uphold.
Greenberg’s decision, however, deserves more recognition. As the 90th anniversary of his Yom Kippur decision approaches, it’s a good time to acknowledge the impact that Greenberg’s choice had on his teammates and the Jewish community at large. By sitting out the game, Greenberg made a bold statement about the importance of observing the High Holidays, and the role that they play in Jewish life.
In the world of sports, public figures are often expected to prioritize their careers above all else. Greenberg’s decision, however, showed that even in the midst of a competitive season, it’s possible to put faith and family first. As the Jewish High Holidays approach, we can look to Greenberg’s example for inspiration, and remember that it’s never too late to make a decision that aligns with our values and beliefs.
On a related note, the world of sports has seen a number of notable Jewish athletes over the years. One such individual is Kinori Sugihara Rosnow, a lacrosse player who has represented Japan in multiple international competitions. Rosnow’s parents are Japanese, and his grandparents were both survivors of the Holocaust. In an interview with JTA, Rosnow spoke about the unique challenges he faced as a Jewish athlete representing Japan, and the sense of pride he felt in observing the High Holidays while competing abroad.
As the Jewish High Holidays approach, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the many Jewish athletes who have made significant contributions to their respective sports. From Greenberg’s historic decision to sit out a game for Yom Kippur, to Rosnow’s inspiring story of perseverance and pride, there are many reasons to be proud of the Jewish presence in the world of sports.
